Making a Difference

Authored by Hunter-Quartz, Karen; Olsen, Brad; Anderson, Lauren; Barraza-Lyons, Kimberly

“Making a Difference is an easy-to-read book that gets at much of the complexity of what it means to ‘stay in’ or ‘leave’ teaching. This book makes it clear that this kind of simple distinction will no longer work to answer the most troubling – and the most important – questions related to teacher career trajectories. This book will make a significant contribution to the literature.” —Marilyn Cochran-Smith, Lynch School of Education, Boston College *Praise for The Teacher’s Toolkit* “Books about teaching seldom combine theory, research, practice, and inspiration, but that is precisely what The Teacher’s Toolkit series does. Seasoned educators and researchers explore the profession of teaching through social justice and efficacy. University faculty, their students, and new teachers will cherish these books, while veteran teachers will develop new insights from them.” —Sonia Nieto, University of Massachusetts, Amherst “This series renders complex ideas not only intelligible, but also meaningful. The authors brilliantly weave together theory and research, vision, and vivid examples. Teacher-readers will find themselves respected as intellectuals, and empowered as leaders.” —Christine Sleeter, California State University-Monterey Bay “When we reflect on our careers, we undoubtedly ask whether the choices we made were the best for bringing about a new society. Here is a collection of theoretically cohesive books, all of them integrating research and heart felt understanding. The books carry the polyphonic voices of the individual volumes, and most importantly, they are in sync in purpose, in passion, and in thoughtfulness about how to make our world a better place for all children.” —María E. Torres-Guzmán, Teachers College, Columbia University “The concerns of twenty-first-century teachers are significant, varied, and urgent. Addressing them as part of professional socialization and further professional development has never been more important. The Teacher’s Toolkit does just that. Using powerful tools of inquiry, narrative, critical reflection, and analysis, these books help new and experienced teachers to achieve balance and perspective in their professional and personal lives.” —Susan Florio-Ruane, Michigan State University

• Introduction; Chapter 1 The Landscape of Careers in Education; Chapter 2 Exercising Professional Autonomy; Chapter 3 Building Social Networks; Chapter 4 Making a Difference; Chapter 5 The Dream Job;